Mantario Trail System
Precambrian Shield granite and endless wilderness
The Mantario Trail cuts through 60 miles of Manitoba’s pristine Whiteshell Provincial Park, crossing granite ridges and beaver-dam country that’ll test your diff locks. Named after the old Mantario Hiking Trail, the 4WD routes branch off Highway 307 into serious bush country where moose outnumber people 100 to 1. Wallace Lake and Jessica Lake offer technical approaches over exposed bedrock that’ll scrape your skid plates raw.
Moderate to difficult depending on your route choice, requiring high-clearance 4WD with underbody protection and recovery gear. Creek crossings can be knee-deep during spring runoff, and the granite can be greasy when wet. Best tackled June through September when black flies aren’t trying to carry you off. No permits needed, but fuel up in Lac du Bonnet — you’re heading into country where the nearest mechanic is a day’s drive away.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 60 mi / 96.6 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1340 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Lac du Bonnet, MB |
| Land manager | Manitoba Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | gov.mb.ca |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum rig needed for the Mantario Trail System?
High-clearance 4WD is the floor here — the granite slab sections and rocky creek approaches will hang up anything less. A stock Tacoma or 4Runner with all-terrain tires can handle it, but a lifted rig with a locker will make the technical bits far less stressful.
When does the Mantario Trail open and close each year?
June through September is the reliable window. Spring breakup leaves trails soft and creek crossings dangerously high well into May, and early snow can hit by late October — the Precambrian Shield doesn't ease you in gently.
Do I need a permit to run the Mantario Trail?
The trail falls under Manitoba Parks / Whiteshell Provincial Park jurisdiction, so a Manitoba Parks vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Check current fees and any backcountry camping registration requirements directly with Manitoba Parks before you leave — regulations can change season to season.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The technical creek crossings are where rigs get honest — water depth varies with rainfall and you won't always know what you're dropping into. The granite slab climbs demand careful tire placement; there's no dirt to dig into if you start sliding sideways.
Is there any place to resupply fuel or water along the 60 miles?
No — there are zero services on trail, and with no cell service you're fully self-sufficient once you roll in. Top off fuel in Lac du Bonnet before you start and carry a filter or purification tablets; the lakes and creeks are your only water source out there.
Trail track
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